Thesis Work on Optimal Best-Efficiency-Point Operation of Motor-Pump Systems Using Drive-Resident Applications

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Your role and responsibilities

Variable-speed drives already contain rich internal signals and application functions for pumps. However, most current approaches optimize either the motor or the pump in isolation or rely on simplified assumptions that do not fully capture the combined system behavior over the equipment lifetime. This thesis explores methods to improve overall system efficiency by considering both motor and pump characteristics together, while accounting for gradual changes in performance. The work focuses on solutions that can run using only data already available in the drive, without requiring additional sensors. The research includes modelling, algorithm development, simulation and experimental evaluation on representative industrial drive platforms.

Details:

• Period: January 2027-June 2027
• Number of credits: 30 ECTS
• Number of students for this thesis work: 1
• Location: ABB Corporate Research (Västerås)

This thesis investigates methods for improving the energy efficiency of variable-speed motor-pump systems by continuously operating them closer to their overall system optimum, using information already available inside modern variable-speed drives.

Goals:​

• Explore and evaluate algorithms for real-time efficiency-oriented control of motor-pump systems​
• Quantify potential energy savings and reliability benefits under realistic operating conditions​
• Assess practical implementation aspects on industrial drive platforms​

Qualifications for the role
This thesis is designed for a student with a strong interest in

industrial energy efficiency.​

• A strong motivation to develop practical solutions for real industrial equipment.​
• An academic background in Electrical, Mechanical or Energy Engineering.​
• Good programming skills (Python, MATLAB/Simulink or industrial drive application environments) and willingness to work with real drive platforms​
• Analytical skills for modelling, simulation and experimental validation.​
  

More about us

Recruiting Manager Linus Thrybom, +46 730 80 9906, will answer your general questions. Supervisor Miguel Aguiar (miguel.aguiar@se.abb.com) and Moksadur Rahman (moksadur.rahman@se.abb.com) will answer questions about the thesis topic and expectations. 

Positions are filled continuously. Please apply with your CV, academic transcripts, and a cover letter in English.

We look forward to receiving your application!

A future opportunity

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